Cold Stamp versus Hot Stamp

[Dinadan]

Many times I have seen the phrase cold stamped. Often in the Counterfeit Watch forum. Even after looking at photos of the stamps in question, I am unable to say just whet it is that differentiates the hot versus cold stamps.

So I am hoping that some of you folks who are more knowledgeable will post some photos of cold stamps or hot stamps, along with detailed explanations of just what details separate the two kinds of stamps. What companies used which kinds of stamps when? I am just wanting to dredge up a bit of info about a topic that I have not seen addressed in any detail.

[Mumbleypeg]

I don’t have pictures of knives with cold stamps - I try to avoid them! The best resource I’m aware of for pictures of authentic stamps and cold stamps is Witcher’s Counterfeiting Antique Cutlery in which he has many pictures and examples. It takes a practiced eye from looking at many knives to learn what to look for but once you “get it” you will know.

Authentic original stamps are applied before the blade is tempered/hardened. A “cold stamp” is typically one which is applied after hardening, by a counterfeiter. (Usually the original stamp has been grinded off, then the new “cold stamp” is applied). Several of my posts in the Counterfeit Watch thread have attempted do exactly what you’ve requested. https://www.allaboutpocketknives.com/kn ... 2#p1209222

https://www.allaboutpocketknives.com/kn ... 8#p1180608

https://www.allaboutpocketknives.com/kn ... 9#p1177099

https://www.allaboutpocketknives.com/kn ... 5#p1000365

Also recommend you watch the Case factory tour video on YouTube https://youtu.be/DskCh5-L878 paying particular attention to the sequence of events that take place during the manufacturing process. The stamps are applied in the very first step, simultaneously with the blades being stamped (blanked) from raw rolled steel. The stamp is essentially cut into the steel just as the blade is cut out. At this point the steel is relatively soft. The blades are not hardened until much later. Applying a stamp to hardened steel causes a “mashing” instead of cutting, resulting in rounded edges. Learning the difference in appearance is key, and takes some study.

Last but not least it is often easier to detect the things done by a counterfeiter to facilitate applying a fake stamp. Like disassembly and re-assembly of the knife, grinding (shaving) the tang to remove the original stamp (curved shoulder grind, tang narrower than the spring, etc). Usually those tell-tale signs can be seen before ever looking at the stamp.

Ken

[Dinadan]

I don’t have pictures of knives with cold stamps - I try to avoid them! The best resource I’m aware of for pictures of authentic stamps and cold stamps is Witcher’s Counterfeiting Antique Cutlery in which he has many pictures and examples.
Ken

Thank you, Ken, for the info and the links.